Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A determination system comprising: a head electrode that is configured to be located on a left head portion of a user; an ear hole electrode that is configured to be located in an ear hole of the user; a memory configured to store a program; and a processor configured to execute the program and control the determination system to: obtain a voltage signal between the head electrode and the ear hole electrode; and determine whether or not a change in the voltage signal indicates that the user intends to move a portion on a right side of the body of the user.
This invention relates to a system for detecting a user's intention to move a body part, specifically focusing on the right side of the body. The system addresses the challenge of accurately interpreting neural or physiological signals to predict movement intent, which is useful in applications such as prosthetics, rehabilitation, or human-machine interfaces. The system includes a head electrode placed on the left side of the user's head and an ear hole electrode positioned inside the ear canal. These electrodes measure voltage signals generated by neural or muscular activity. A processor analyzes these signals to detect changes that correlate with the user's intention to move a body part on the right side. The system is designed to interpret subtle electrical variations between the head and ear electrodes, which may indicate motor planning or preparatory signals before actual movement occurs. The memory stores a program that enables the processor to process the voltage signals and determine whether the detected changes signify an intent to move. This approach leverages the spatial relationship between the electrodes and the brain's motor cortex, which controls voluntary movements. By monitoring these signals, the system aims to provide real-time feedback or control inputs for assistive devices or medical applications. The invention improves upon existing methods by using a non-invasive electrode placement and focusing on specific movement intentions.
2. The determination system according to claim 1 , wherein, in a case where the change in the voltage signal is a first threshold or larger, the processor is further configured to execute the program and control the determination system to determine that the change in the voltage signal indicates that the user intends to move the portion on the right side of the body of the user.
This invention relates to a determination system for interpreting user intent based on voltage signal changes, particularly for detecting movement intentions in wearable or bioelectric devices. The system addresses the challenge of accurately interpreting subtle physiological signals to determine user actions, such as limb movement, without requiring explicit user input. The system includes a processor configured to analyze voltage signals generated by the user's body, such as bioelectric signals or muscle activity. The processor executes a program to monitor these signals for changes and compares them against predefined thresholds. If the change in the voltage signal exceeds a first threshold, the system determines that the user intends to move a portion on the right side of their body. The system may also include additional components, such as sensors or interfaces, to capture and process these signals. The invention aims to improve the responsiveness and accuracy of assistive devices, prosthetics, or human-machine interfaces by interpreting subtle physiological cues. The determination logic ensures that only significant signal changes trigger a movement command, reducing false positives. This approach enhances user interaction with devices that rely on bioelectric feedback, such as exoskeletons or rehabilitation tools.
3. The determination system according to claim 1 , wherein the ear hole electrode is configured to be located in the ear hole of the user which includes an auricular concha or an external auditory canal.
This invention relates to a determination system for analyzing physiological or biological signals from a user, specifically using an ear hole electrode positioned in the ear hole, which may include the auricular concha or the external auditory canal. The system is designed to address challenges in obtaining accurate and stable signal measurements from the ear, which can be affected by movement, sweat, or improper electrode placement. The ear hole electrode is configured to maintain stable contact with the skin inside the ear, ensuring reliable signal acquisition. The system may also include additional electrodes or sensors to enhance signal quality or provide complementary data. The ear hole electrode's placement in the ear hole, particularly in the auricular concha or external auditory canal, allows for consistent contact with the skin, reducing noise and improving signal fidelity. This configuration is particularly useful for applications such as health monitoring, fitness tracking, or medical diagnostics, where precise and uninterrupted signal measurements are critical. The system may further incorporate signal processing techniques to filter noise and extract meaningful physiological data from the acquired signals.
4. The determination system according to claim 1 , further comprising: an indicator that indicates, to the user, a first time section in which the user has a motor intention and a second time section in which the user does not have a motor intention, wherein, in a case where a frequency band power of the voltage signal in a certain frequency band in the first time section is smaller than a frequency band power of the voltage signal in the certain frequency band in the second time section, the processor is further configured to execute the program and control the determination system to determine that the voltage signal indicates that the user intends to move the portion on the right side of the body of the user.
This invention relates to a determination system for detecting a user's motor intention, particularly for distinguishing between periods when the user intends to move a specific body part (e.g., the right side) and when they do not. The system addresses the challenge of accurately interpreting neural signals to determine movement intent, which is critical for applications like prosthetics, rehabilitation, or brain-computer interfaces. The system includes sensors that capture voltage signals from the user's body, such as electromyographic (EMG) or electroencephalographic (EEG) signals. A processor analyzes these signals, focusing on specific frequency bands. The system identifies two distinct time sections: a first section where the user has motor intention (e.g., preparing to move the right side of the body) and a second section where they do not. An indicator visually or audibly signals these sections to the user. The key innovation lies in comparing the frequency band power of the voltage signal between these sections. If the power in the first section (motor intention) is lower than in the second section (no intention), the system concludes that the user intends to move the right side of their body. This approach leverages the inverse relationship between motor intention and signal power in certain frequency bands, improving the reliability of intent detection. The system may integrate with assistive devices to translate this intent into action, such as controlling a prosthetic limb or a robotic exoskeleton.
5. The determination system according to claim 4 , wherein the voltage signal includes a first voltage signal observed in the first time section and a second voltage signal observed in the second time section.
A system determines electrical characteristics of a device under test (DUT) by analyzing voltage signals observed during different time sections. The system measures a first voltage signal during a first time section and a second voltage signal during a second time section. These signals are processed to extract relevant electrical properties, such as resistance, capacitance, or other parameters, by comparing the signals against reference data or applying analytical techniques. The system may use these measurements to assess the DUT's performance, detect faults, or verify compliance with specifications. The time sections may correspond to different operational states or test phases of the DUT, allowing for dynamic characterization. The system may include signal conditioning components, such as filters or amplifiers, to enhance measurement accuracy. The analysis may involve digital signal processing, statistical methods, or machine learning to interpret the voltage signals and derive meaningful insights. The system is particularly useful in automated testing environments where precise and repeatable measurements are required.
6. The determination system according to claim 4 , wherein the frequency band is included in a band from 8 to 25 Hz.
The invention relates to a determination system for analyzing physiological signals, specifically focusing on frequency bands within the 8 to 25 Hz range. This system is designed to address challenges in accurately detecting and interpreting specific frequency components in biological signals, such as those related to muscle activity or neural oscillations. The system includes a signal processing module that extracts and isolates frequency bands from raw physiological data, with particular emphasis on the 8 to 25 Hz range, which is often associated with key physiological processes. The extracted frequency components are then analyzed to derive meaningful insights, such as identifying patterns or anomalies indicative of specific conditions or states. The system may also incorporate filtering techniques to enhance signal clarity and reduce noise, ensuring reliable frequency band determination. By focusing on this specific frequency range, the system improves the accuracy and specificity of physiological signal analysis, enabling better diagnostic or monitoring applications. The invention is particularly useful in medical, sports science, or rehabilitation contexts where precise frequency analysis is critical.
7. The determination system according to claim 4 , wherein the frequency band includes an α waveband and a β waveband.
The invention relates to a determination system for analyzing brainwave signals, specifically focusing on the detection and processing of neural oscillations within the α (alpha) and β (beta) frequency bands. These frequency bands are associated with different cognitive and physiological states, such as relaxation (α) and active thinking or concentration (β). The system is designed to address the challenge of accurately identifying and distinguishing these brainwave patterns to assess mental states or cognitive functions. The determination system includes a signal acquisition module that captures brainwave data, typically through electroencephalography (EEG) or similar neuroimaging techniques. The system then processes the acquired signals to isolate and analyze the α and β frequency components. This involves filtering the raw brainwave data to extract the relevant frequency bands and applying signal processing algorithms to quantify their characteristics, such as amplitude, power, or coherence. By incorporating both α and β wavebands, the system provides a more comprehensive analysis of brain activity compared to systems that focus on a single frequency band. This dual-band approach enhances the accuracy of cognitive state assessments, enabling applications in fields such as neurofeedback, mental health monitoring, and brain-computer interfaces. The system may also include additional modules for real-time monitoring, data visualization, or automated decision-making based on the analyzed brainwave patterns. The integration of α and β wavebands allows for a nuanced understanding of brain function, addressing limitations in prior systems that relied on narrower frequency ranges.
8. The determination system according to claim 1 , wherein the ear hole electrode is located in a right ear hole.
The invention relates to a determination system for analyzing physiological or biological signals using an ear hole electrode. The system addresses the challenge of accurately capturing and processing signals from the ear region, which can be influenced by factors such as electrode placement and signal interference. The ear hole electrode is specifically positioned in the right ear hole to optimize signal acquisition, ensuring reliable and consistent measurements. The system may include additional electrodes or sensors to enhance signal quality and reduce noise. The ear hole electrode is designed to fit securely within the ear canal, maintaining stable contact with the skin to minimize movement artifacts. The system processes the captured signals to derive meaningful physiological data, such as heart rate, blood oxygen levels, or neural activity, which can be used for medical monitoring, fitness tracking, or diagnostic purposes. The precise placement of the electrode in the right ear hole ensures accurate and repeatable measurements, improving the overall reliability of the system. The invention may also include calibration mechanisms to account for variations in individual anatomy or environmental conditions, ensuring consistent performance across different users.
9. The determination system according to claim 1 , wherein a reference electrode is configured to be located on a left mastoid of the user.
The invention relates to a determination system for analyzing physiological signals, specifically focusing on the placement of a reference electrode for accurate signal measurement. The system addresses the challenge of obtaining reliable bioelectric signals, such as electroencephalography (EEG) or electromyography (EMG), by optimizing electrode positioning. The reference electrode, a critical component in bioelectric signal measurement, is configured to be placed on the left mastoid of the user. The mastoid bone, located behind the ear, provides a stable and low-noise reference point, reducing signal distortion and improving measurement accuracy. This placement minimizes interference from muscle activity and other artifacts, ensuring consistent and high-quality signal acquisition. The system may also include additional electrodes for capturing signals from other body regions, with the reference electrode serving as a baseline for comparison. The invention enhances the reliability of bioelectric signal analysis, particularly in applications requiring precise physiological monitoring, such as medical diagnostics, brain-computer interfaces, or neuromuscular assessments. By standardizing the reference electrode placement, the system ensures reproducibility and reduces variability in signal interpretation.
10. A control signal output system, comprising: a head electrode that is configured to be located on a left head portion of a user; an ear hole electrode that is configured to be located in an ear hole of the user; an electroencephalogram signal measurer that obtains a voltage signal between the head electrode and the ear hole electrode; and a signal outputter that outputs a control signal for operating an actuator that operates an attachment that is attached to the user and assists movement of the user in accordance with a change in the voltage signal.
This invention relates to a control signal output system for assisting user movement using electroencephalogram (EEG) signals. The system addresses the challenge of providing intuitive, non-invasive control of assistive devices by leveraging brain activity detected through EEG measurements. The system includes a head electrode placed on the left side of the user's head and an ear hole electrode positioned in the user's ear canal. These electrodes measure voltage signals between the two points, which reflect neural activity. The measured EEG signals are processed to detect changes, which are then converted into control signals. These signals operate an actuator connected to an attachment worn by the user, such as an exoskeleton or prosthetic, to assist movement. The system enables real-time, brain-controlled adjustments to the assistive device, improving mobility and user interaction without requiring invasive procedures or complex input methods. The design focuses on simplicity and reliability, ensuring seamless integration with wearable assistive technologies.
11. The control signal output system according to claim 10 , wherein, in a case where the change in the voltage signal is a first threshold or larger, the signal outputter outputs the control signal.
A system for generating and outputting control signals based on voltage signal changes is described. The system monitors a voltage signal and detects changes in its value. When the change in the voltage signal exceeds a predefined first threshold, the system outputs a control signal. This control signal can be used to trigger actions in other systems or devices. The system includes a signal detector that continuously measures the voltage signal and calculates its rate of change. If the detected change meets or exceeds the first threshold, a signal outputter generates and transmits the control signal. The system may also include additional thresholds or conditions to refine when the control signal is output, ensuring that only significant voltage changes trigger the signal. This approach helps prevent false activations while ensuring timely responses to relevant voltage fluctuations. The system is useful in applications where precise control based on voltage changes is required, such as in power management, sensor monitoring, or industrial automation.
12. The control signal output system according to claim 10 , wherein the ear hole electrode is configured to be located in the ear hole of the user which includes an auricular concha or an external auditory canal.
This invention relates to a control signal output system designed for user interaction, particularly focusing on the placement of an ear hole electrode. The system addresses the challenge of providing precise and reliable control signals by utilizing an electrode positioned within the user's ear hole, specifically targeting the auricular concha or the external auditory canal. This placement enhances signal accuracy and user responsiveness by ensuring direct contact with the skin in these regions, which are highly sensitive to electrical stimulation. The electrode is part of a broader system that generates and transmits control signals based on user input, such as gestures or muscle movements, detected through the electrode. The system may also include additional components like signal processing units to interpret the detected signals and convert them into actionable commands for connected devices. By leveraging the anatomical features of the ear, the invention improves signal fidelity and reduces interference, making it suitable for applications in wearable technology, medical devices, or human-machine interfaces. The electrode's design ensures comfort and stability during use, allowing for prolonged and reliable operation.
13. The control signal output system according to claim 10 , further comprising: an indicator that indicates, to the user, a first time section in which the user has a motor intention and a second time section in which the user does not have the motor intention, wherein, in a case where a frequency band power of the voltage signal in a certain frequency band in the first time section is smaller than a frequency band power of the voltage signal in the certain frequency band in the second time section, the signal outputter outputs the control signal.
This invention relates to a control signal output system for detecting and utilizing a user's motor intention, particularly in scenarios where the user's neural signals indicate a lack of motor intention. The system is designed to address challenges in accurately distinguishing between periods when a user intends to perform a motor action and when they do not, which is critical for applications such as brain-computer interfaces or assistive technologies. The system includes a signal processor that analyzes a voltage signal derived from the user's neural activity, focusing on specific frequency bands. An indicator visually or otherwise signals the user about two distinct time sections: one where the user has motor intention and another where they do not. The system then compares the frequency band power of the voltage signal in these two sections. If the power in the certain frequency band is lower during the motor intention section than during the non-intention section, the system outputs a control signal. This approach ensures that the control signal is only generated when the user's neural activity aligns with the absence of motor intention, improving the reliability of the system in applications requiring precise user intent detection. The system may also include a signal amplifier to enhance the voltage signal before processing and a signal filter to isolate relevant frequency bands.
14. A rehabilitation system comprising: an attachment that is attached to a user and assists movement of the user; an actuator that operates the attachment; a head electrode that is configured to be located on a left head portion of the user; an ear hole electrode that is configured to be located in an ear hole of the user; an electroencephalogram signal measurer that obtains a voltage signal between the head electrode and the ear hole electrode; and a signal outputter that outputs a control signal for operating the actuator in accordance with a change in the voltage signal.
This rehabilitation system is designed to assist users with movement impairments by using brain signals to control an external attachment. The system addresses the challenge of providing intuitive, real-time movement assistance without requiring invasive procedures or complex user training. The attachment is worn by the user and helps facilitate movement, such as walking or lifting, by interfacing with an actuator that adjusts its position or force based on the user's intentions. The system includes a head electrode placed on the left side of the user's head and an ear hole electrode positioned inside the ear canal. These electrodes measure electroencephalogram (EEG) signals, capturing voltage changes in the brain that correspond to movement intentions. The measured voltage signals are processed to generate control signals, which are sent to the actuator to adjust the attachment's operation accordingly. This closed-loop approach allows the system to respond dynamically to the user's neural activity, providing personalized assistance without requiring explicit user input. The design leverages non-invasive EEG sensing to enable seamless interaction between the user's brain signals and the mechanical support system.
15. The rehabilitation system according to claim 14 , wherein, in a case where the change in the voltage signal is a first threshold or larger, the signal outputter outputs the control signal.
A rehabilitation system is designed to assist individuals in recovering motor functions, particularly for those with impaired mobility. The system monitors a user's muscle activity through sensors that detect electrical signals, such as electromyography (EMG) signals, from muscles. These signals are processed to determine the user's intended movement or muscle activation. The system includes a signal output module that generates a control signal when the detected muscle activity exceeds a predefined threshold. This control signal can then be used to activate assistive devices, such as robotic exoskeletons, prosthetics, or other rehabilitation tools, to support the user's movement. The system ensures that the assistive device responds only when the user's muscle activity reaches a significant level, preventing unintended or weak activations. This threshold-based approach improves the precision and reliability of the rehabilitation process, allowing for more effective and targeted therapy. The system may also include feedback mechanisms to adjust the threshold dynamically based on the user's progress or environmental conditions, enhancing adaptability and performance.
16. The rehabilitation system according to claim 14 , wherein the ear hole electrode is configured to be located in the ear hole of the user which includes an auricular concha or an external auditory canal.
This invention relates to a rehabilitation system designed to assist users with hearing or neurological impairments. The system includes an ear hole electrode positioned within the user's ear, specifically in the auricular concha or the external auditory canal. This electrode is part of a broader apparatus that delivers targeted electrical stimulation to the user's auditory or nervous system to improve sensory perception, motor function, or cognitive abilities. The system may also incorporate additional electrodes or sensors placed on other parts of the body to monitor physiological responses or provide supplementary stimulation. The ear hole electrode is engineered to ensure stable contact with the ear tissue, optimizing signal transmission while minimizing discomfort. The system may be used in therapeutic settings to aid in rehabilitation from conditions such as hearing loss, balance disorders, or neurological injuries. The placement of the electrode in the ear hole allows for precise stimulation of auditory pathways or nearby neural structures, enhancing the effectiveness of the rehabilitation process. The system may also include feedback mechanisms to adjust stimulation parameters based on real-time user responses, ensuring personalized and adaptive treatment.
17. The rehabilitation system according to claim 14 , further comprising: an indicator that indicates, to the user, a first time section in which the user has a motor intention and a second time section in which the user does not have the motor intention, wherein, in a case where a frequency band power of the voltage signal in a certain frequency band in the first time section is smaller, by a second threshold or larger, than a frequency band power of the voltage signal in the certain frequency band in the second time section, the signal outputter outputs the control signal.
This rehabilitation system is designed to assist users with motor impairments by detecting and responding to their motor intentions. The system includes sensors that measure voltage signals from the user's muscles or brain, which are analyzed to determine periods of motor intention (when the user intends to move) and non-intention (when the user is not intending to move). An indicator visually or audibly distinguishes these two time sections for the user. The system further includes a signal output module that generates a control signal when the power of the voltage signal in a specific frequency band during the motor intention period is significantly lower (by a predefined threshold) than during the non-intention period. This control signal can trigger assistive devices, such as robotic limbs or prosthetics, to aid the user in movement. The system helps bridge the gap between neural activity and physical action, improving rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with limited motor control.
18. A determination method comprising: obtaining a voltage signal between a head electrode and an ear hole electrode by using the head electrode and the ear hole electrode, the head electrode being located on a left head portion of a user, the ear hole electrode being located in an ear hole of the user; and determining whether or not a change in the voltage signal indicates that the user intends to move a portion on a right side of the body of the user.
This invention relates to a method for detecting a user's intention to move a portion of their body, specifically on the right side, using bioelectrical signals. The method involves placing a head electrode on the left side of a user's head and an ear hole electrode inside the user's ear canal. The system measures the voltage signal between these two electrodes. By analyzing changes in this voltage signal, the method determines whether the user intends to move a part of their body on the right side. The approach leverages bioelectrical activity to infer movement intent, potentially useful for applications in prosthetics, assistive devices, or human-machine interfaces where detecting movement intention is critical. The method focuses on detecting signals that correlate with right-side body movements, distinguishing it from general bioelectrical monitoring systems. The technique may involve signal processing to identify patterns indicative of movement intent, ensuring accurate detection without requiring explicit user input. This method could improve responsiveness in systems that rely on predicting user actions based on bioelectrical signals.
19. A control signal output method, comprising: obtaining a voltage signal between a head electrode and an ear hole electrode by using the head electrode and the ear hole electrode, the head electrode being located on a left head portion of the user, the ear hole electrode being located in an ear hole of the user; and outputting a control signal for operating an actuator that operates an attachment that is attached to the user and assists movement of the user in accordance with a change in the voltage signal.
This invention relates to a control system for wearable assistive devices that aid user movement. The system addresses the challenge of providing intuitive, real-time control of movement-assisting attachments, such as exoskeletons or prosthetics, by leveraging bioelectrical signals from the user's head. The method involves using a head electrode placed on the left side of the user's head and an ear hole electrode positioned inside the user's ear canal. These electrodes detect voltage signals generated by the user's bioelectrical activity, such as muscle movements or neural signals. The system processes these voltage signals to determine changes in the user's intended movement. Based on these changes, a control signal is generated and sent to an actuator, which then adjusts the operation of an attachment designed to assist the user's movement. The attachment could be a wearable device like a robotic limb, exoskeleton, or other assistive equipment. The invention enables seamless, responsive control of assistive devices by interpreting bioelectrical signals from the head and translating them into precise actuator commands, improving mobility and user interaction with assistive technology.
20. A recording medium storing a computer program that causes a computer to perform processing, the recording medium being non-volatile and computer-readable, the processing comprising: obtaining a voltage signal between a head electrode and an ear hole electrode by using the head electrode and the ear hole electrode, the head electrode being located on a left head portion of a user, the ear hole electrode being located in an ear hole of the user; and determining whether or not a change in the voltage signal indicates that the user intends to move a portion on a right side of the body of the user.
This invention relates to a non-volatile, computer-readable recording medium storing a computer program for detecting user intent to move a right-side body portion based on voltage signals. The system uses a head electrode placed on the left side of a user's head and an ear hole electrode positioned in the user's ear canal. The program obtains a voltage signal between these electrodes and analyzes changes in the signal to determine if the user intends to move a body part on the right side. The electrodes capture bioelectrical signals, which are processed to identify patterns indicative of movement intent. This approach leverages the correlation between neural activity and muscle activation, allowing non-invasive detection of movement intentions. The system may be used in applications such as assistive devices, prosthetics, or human-machine interfaces where interpreting user intent is critical. The invention addresses the challenge of accurately detecting movement intentions without invasive methods, providing a practical solution for real-time monitoring and control.
21. A recording medium storing a computer program that causes a computer to perform processing, the recording medium being non-volatile and computer-readable, the processing comprising: obtaining a voltage signal between a head electrode and an ear hole electrode by using the head electrode and the ear hole electrode, the head electrode being located on a left head portion of the user, the ear hole electrode being located in an ear hole of the user; and outputting a control signal for operating an actuator that operates an attachment that is attached to the user and assists movement of the user in accordance with a change in the voltage signal.
This invention relates to a non-volatile, computer-readable recording medium storing a computer program for processing bioelectric signals to assist user movement. The system addresses the challenge of providing real-time, adaptive movement assistance by leveraging bioelectric signals detected from a user's head and ear. The program obtains a voltage signal between a head electrode placed on the left side of the user's head and an ear hole electrode positioned inside the user's ear canal. The voltage signal, which reflects bioelectric activity, is analyzed to generate a control signal. This control signal operates an actuator connected to an attachment worn by the user, such as an exoskeleton or prosthetic device, to assist with movement based on detected changes in the voltage signal. The system dynamically adjusts the actuator's operation in response to variations in the bioelectric signal, enabling personalized and responsive movement support. The invention improves upon existing biofeedback systems by integrating precise electrode placement and real-time signal processing to enhance movement assistance accuracy and adaptability.
Unknown
November 24, 2020
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